Save beautiful Lakeshore Drive
Dear Editor:
As a proud resident of Penticton, I am writing to express my vehement opposition to the proposed plan to permit significantly taller buildings in our beloved Lakeshore Drive. Its idyllic beach and the serene expanse of the lake, holds a special place in our hearts and serves as a symbol of our community’s natural beauty and charm.
Here are some key points we must consider in opposing this plan:
1. Preservation of Character: Lakeshore Drive is not just a stretch of land; it’s a place where memories are made. Allowing towering structures to overshadow the beach and the existing homes and businesses would fundamentally alter the character of the neighbourhood, erasing the essence of what makes Lakeshore Drive unique.
2. Traffic and Infrastructure: Our current infrastructure is already strained, especially during peak tourist seasons. Introducing taller buildings would inevitably lead to increased vehicular traffic and strain on our roads, parking facilities, and public services. This would not only inconvenience residents and visitors but also compromise safety.
3. Housing for the Advantaged: The new towers would provided housing for the wealthy, a market already very well served.
4. Confining Public Space: New heights would block sight lines of the general population that take advantage of a free beach. As we densify our city it is most important that we do not physically or visually crowd/confine our existing public areas and parks, sight lines are most important in this matter.
5. Fire Safety: Less than three years ago in summer of 2021 local forest fires were fought with water bombers that used a very low southern approach to Okanagan Lake directly over Lakeshore Drive. This is a preferred approach due to the prevailing north winds. This is not a novel event, the same approach was used by the Martin Mars bomber when it fought fires here. With the Okanagan Lake (and Skaha) being confined by mountains east and west it would be short sited to prevent convenient and safer access.
6. Tourism and Economic Impact: Our beachfront is not only a source of natural beauty but also a driver of local tourism and economic activity. Visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the unique charm of Lakeshore Drive, supporting local businesses and contributing to our economy. Introducing taller buildings would detract from the appeal of our beachfront, reducing it’s appeal in tourism and adversely affecting the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
7. Historical Significance: Lakeshore Drive is not just a collection of buildings; it is a living testament to our city’s history and heritage. The existing architecture, from the quaint motels to the charming apartment blocks, reflects the evolution of our community over time. Allowing towering structures would not only disrupt this historical continuity but also diminish the cultural value of Lakeshore Drive as a landmark destination.
Let us safeguard the essence of Lakeshore Drive for generations to come.
Randy Tayler
Penticton